The Time4Learning Team – Time4Learninghttps://www.time4learning.com
Homeschool, Afterschool, Skill BuildingThu, 15 Mar 2018 13:13:53 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.4California Field Trips for Homeschoolershttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/california-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/california-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/#respondThu, 15 Mar 2018 12:00:02 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13878Your backpacks are filled with snacks, activity books, colored pencils and an extra change of clothes. Your route is locked into the GPS. You’ve even uploaded some educational videos to your tablet. It must be FIELD TRIP day in your homeschool!! Whether you are visiting the state as a homeschooling tourist or are a resident […]]]>

Your backpacks are filled with snacks, activity books, colored pencils and an extra change of clothes. Your route is locked into the GPS. You’ve even uploaded some educational videos to your tablet. It must be FIELD TRIP day in your homeschool!! Whether you are visiting the state as a homeschooling tourist or are a resident family who’s in search of places to visit in California with children, this great big state has amazing destinations full of learning possibilities.

In California, day trips are one of the best ways to rev up a sluggish homeschool month. Plus, homeschool field trips create the kind of learning that will often stick with your student far longer than something they read in a textbook or even watch on a video. To help you find the best field trip ideas in California, we’ve organized them by geographic region. Browse the list below and get your homeschoolers involved in choosing which ones you’ll visit first. You can even plan out each of your learning adventures on this printable California map from Time4Learning. Plus, as a bonus, we’ve even included a free download of Time4Learning lesson plans that might be the perfect supplement for each trip (grab yours at the end of this article)!

Home education is not the same in every state. Make sure you’re getting the information you need to start homeschooling in the The Golden State.

Homeschool Field Trips in Northern California

Calpine Geothermal Visitor Center, Middletown – The Geysers, comprising 30 square miles along the Sonoma and Lake County border, is the largest complex of geothermal power plants in the world. The exhibit hall and free tours are designed to engage visitors and spark interest in geothermal energy.

Gold Nugget Museum, Paradise – There are many hands-on events that regularly happen at the museum, as well as school programs that allow children to spend a full day on the grounds living as pioneers from the 1850s. Regular exhibits include Maidu Indian artifacts, a blacksmith shop, gold sluices, and a miner’s cabin.

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, Nevada City – This site would be a great kickoff for a homeschool lesson on mines and mining. California’s largest hydraulic mine was located here and you’ll see the end result of extreme mining techniques that washed away entire mountains in search for gold.

Placer Nature Center, Auburn – This environmental education center is ideal for homeschool families and even offers monthly homeschool programs on topics such as geology, edible plants, and aquatic life cycles. There are also nature trails, gardens, and a discovery room to explore at any visit.

Homeschool Field Trips in the Bay Area

Año Nuevo State Park, Pescadero – This may be one of your best opportunities to see an elephant seal up close. Every year, up to 10,000 elephant seals come to this place to breed, give birth, and molt their skin in the dunes and beaches. A natural preserve was established here to protect the seals as well as otters, sea lions, and other species.

Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito – Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, this one-of-a-kind indoor/outdoor discovery center has seven exhibition spaces and more than six daily drop-in programs for children 6 months of age to 10 years. Homeschooled visitors will find hands-on art, science and environmental exhibitions, and special events here year-round.

California Agriculture Museum, Woodland – Get hands on with the history of farming in the Sacramento Valley area. You’ll be able to view antique tractors, horse-drawn farm equipment, and other artifacts that tell the story of how food was grown and harvested in the past. There is a gift shop and play area for children here, too.

Children’s Creativity Museum, San Francisco – This hands-on multimedia art and technology experience is designed for children ages 2-12. If you have a child interested in manga, animation, or illustration, definitely don’t pass up the animation studio, where children can create their own stop-motion animated video.

Filoli, Woodside – This country house and gardens is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is a popular spot for a one day trip in California. The grounds offer opportunities for nature hikes, exploration of the 54,000 square foot Georgian English country house, and letting your imagination soar in the 16 acres of formal and working gardens.

Walt Disney Family Museum, San Francisco – If you have a budding artist or animator, this will be a destination that will thoroughly inspire them. This is an art museum like no other — especially since the tours are narrated by Walt Disney himself! Even the building is full of stories; it was once the Presidio, the Pacific coast’s main coastal defense station.

World of Wonders Science Museum, Lodi – Learn about energy, electricity, magnetism, optics, and more at this STEM-focused museum for children. There are over 70 hands-on exhibits and multiple educational opportunities such as science summer camps, a regular makerspace, and a science store.

Homeschool Field Trips in the Greater LA Area

Audubon Center at Debs Park, Los Angeles – This environmental education and conservation center has recorded over 140 different types of birds visiting its woodlands. Families will enjoy joining in on the regular native plant and bird walks that happen monthly, or just do your own nature hunt on any of the many hiking trails on the property.

Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art, Ojai – Imagine walking through a life-size diorama of plants and animals native to the Sespe Wilderness area. Or maybe you’d like to go on a scavenger hunt to learn the history of Ojai. Students will discover multiple ways to explore the history, art, and culture of the Ojai Valley here.

Orange County Zoo, Orange – Sometimes you are looking for things to do In California with children, but want a destination that won’t overwhelm or overstimulate. Nestled in the greater Irvine Regional Park Wilderness is a small zoo that focuses primarily on the animals of the southwestern U.S. Children will love the petting zoo as well as regular programs for toddlers and preschoolers.

USC Pacific Asia Museum, Pasadena – Doing a unit study on Asia or studying about the Silk Road? The treasures in this museum let you step into the culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands. With ever-changing exhibits, hands-on learning opportunities, and art workshops for all ages, you’ll definitely want to schedule a stop at this site.

Homeschool Field Trips in Southern California

Birch Aquarium at Scripps, La Jolla – If you live in the San Diego area, it will definitely worthwhile for you to get an annual membership to this wonderful aquarium. The indoor tanks are organized by region (i.e. San Diego Bay, Baja Reef, etc.) and there are interactive educational features such as computer kiosks with video and photo and music options that enhance your visit.

The Flower Fields, Carlsbad – When spring fever has your homeschoolers antsy and ready for some air, these 50 acres of flowers are ready for roaming. If you get weary, there is a tractor tour which gives you time to rest your legs. Special Kids’ Days during the season offer even more opportunities for hands-on fun and learning.

San Diego Air & Space Museum, San Diego – Education is the main priority at the Air & Space Museum, so this is the ideal homeschool destination for a day trip. This is one of the largest aviation museums in the nation and you’ll encounter many exhibits and galleries of original and reproduction aircraft. You can download an education guide from their website prior to your visit.

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, Escondido – You’ll actually be looking forward to a rainy day if it means an excuse to experience science, world culture, and art geared to 0-10 year olds. Special field trip visits are offered for less busy times at the museum and there are daily story times, art and garden workshops as well as a chicken meet and greet.

Homeschool Field Trips in the CA Desert Region

Calico Ghost Town Regional Park, Yermo – This mining town right out of the Old West has been around since 1881. Take an informative ride on an old mine train, learn about the geology of the area, pan for gold, and browse the museums and shops.

Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento – At special Homeschool Days throughout the year, the museum focuses on a single theme and creates educational programs involving small-group discussions and hands-on activities for students. There are weekly art activities for preschoolers, as well.

Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Yucca Valley – Learn about the wildlife native to Yucca Valley and the desert environment. For families on a budget, this is a field trip to be sure to note because admission is free. Rotating exhibits ensure that you won’t see the same thing twice, even if you come more than once yearly.

The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, Palm Desert – Do camel rides, giraffe feedings, or having a lorikeet land on your hand sound like something out of your homeschooler’s field trip wish book? Then this is a fun, full-day adventure that will teach your students all about desert ecology.

The Sawdust Factory, Upland – For project-based field trips, you can’t go wrong with a trip to this unique “factory” where kids paint and create to their heart’s content. Learn about how seeds turn into the wood that is used for the workshop as well as information about the tools used to craft items from wood. Need more? Then be sure to sit in on one of the “Painting Story Times.”

California Field Trips Resource

Is there anything more fun than learning through field trips? To make your experiences at these destinations even more meaningful, Time4Learning members will appreciate this download of free lesson tie-ins.

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/california-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/feed/0Homeschool Unit Study: President Grover Clevelandhttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-president-grover-cleveland/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-president-grover-cleveland/#respondThu, 08 Mar 2018 13:30:00 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13699Holding an unprecedented spot in history as the only president to serve two, non-consecutive terms, Grover Cleveland was known for his honesty and hard stance against corruption. Cleveland was considered a political reformer, being one of two Democrats to be elected during a time when Republicans dominated the political scene. Prior to becoming president, Cleveland […]]]>

Holding an unprecedented spot in history as the only president to serve two, non-consecutive terms, Grover Cleveland was known for his honesty and hard stance against corruption. Cleveland was considered a political reformer, being one of two Democrats to be elected during a time when Republicans dominated the political scene. Prior to becoming president, Cleveland worked as a lawyer, Sheriff of Erie County, New York, Mayor of Buffalo, and also Governor of New York.

A government for the people must depend for its success on the intelligence, the morality, the justice, and the interest of the people themselves.

Grover Cleveland

Grover Cleveland Timeline

1837

Stephen Grover Cleveland was born in Caldwell, NJ to Ann Neal and Richard Falley Cleveland

1859

Passed the state bar exam in New York

1862

Opened his own law firm

1881

Became mayor of Buffalo, New York

1882

Became New York’s governor

1884

Elected the 22nd president on March 4

1886

Married Frances Folsom on June 2 in the Blue Room, making him the only president who was married in the White House

1887

Vetoed the Texas Seed Bill, which would’ve provided seed grain for Texas farmers after a drought ruined crops in various counties in the state, his most well-known veto

1891

First child, Ruth, was born

1892

Elected the 24th president for a second term

1893

Secretly had surgery to remove a tumor from his mouth aboard a yacht to avoid concern and panic from the public

1908

Died on June 24 in Princeton, NJ at the age of 71 of a heart attack

2013

Inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame

Interesting Facts About Grover Cleveland

Up until then, Cleveland was the only president to deliver his inaugural address without any notes.

President Cleveland was the only American president to serve two non-consecutive terms.

Grover Cleveland became known as the “guardian president” and “veto president” due to his excessive use of the veto power (used 584 times!)

Cleveland saw the surrender of Geronimo and his followers during his first presidential term, which ended the Apache wars.

He is the only president to be married at the White House. His wife, Frances Folsom Cleveland, was the youngest First Lady at 21 years old.

Father to five children: Ruth, Esther, Marion, Richard, and Francis. His daughter, Esther, was the first and only child ever to be born at the White House in 1893.

During his second term, President Cleveland finally granted statehood to Utah on January 4, 1896..

President Grover Cleveland became the first Democrat elected after the Civil War in 1885.

He dedicated the Statue of Liberty as a gift of friendship from France.

Before pursuing a career in law, Cleveland was a teacher at the New York Institute for the Blind.

Cleveland was known to answer the White House phone himself.

Cleveland’s portrait was on the $1,000 bill of series 1928 and 1934.

Distantly related to General Moses Cleveland, after whom the city in Ohio was named.

Hands-On Activities for Grover Cleveland

Most students, regardless of grade, love hands-on activities. Not only are they fun, but they also allow students to gain new insight on a topic by learning from a different perspective. Many hands-on activities also allow students to express their creative side. Below are a few activity ideas by grade level to give your students an added educational boost on President Grover Cleveland.

Elementary Grover Cleveland Activities

Grover Cleveland is the only president to serve two, non-consecutive terms. Have your children imagine that they are on a four year hiatus from the presidency, what would they do during that time? Have them write an essay that includes what they would do for fun, and how they would prepare to run for president again.

Cleveland’s portrait was on a $1,000 bill. Have your child pick a monetary denomination and draw money (coins or paper notes) with their face on it. Give them a real dollar bill or quarter for reference and make sure they remember to do the back of their pretend money too.

Middle School Grover Cleveland Activities

Cleveland was known to have an excellent memory, in fact, he delivered his inaugural address without notes. Have your child research both of Cleveland’s inaugural speeches and then have them write a speech of their own, type it, and then recite it to your family.

Have your child create a dodecahedron (3D, 12-sided, geometric shape) about Cleveland. They can include drawings, facts, and quotes. The possibilities are endless.

High School Grover Cleveland Activities

Before becoming president, Grover Cleveland also worked as a teacher, lawyer, sheriff, governor, and mayor. Have your high schooler pick one of these professions and write an essay detailing why they chose that career, why they would be good at it, and how they would make a difference in the field.

Have your student create a poster about Cleveland. It should include various elements such as his biography, time in the White House, life pre- and post-presidency, etc.

Additional Learning Links for Grover Cleveland

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]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-president-grover-cleveland/feed/0Celebrating Great Women in History in Marchhttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/celebrating-great-women-in-history-in-march/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/celebrating-great-women-in-history-in-march/#respondThu, 01 Mar 2018 16:50:21 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13347In the United States, Canada, the U.K., and Australia, the month of March is dedicated to remembering the contributions of women throughout history. For children, this is an ideal time to put a purposeful focus on the study of all the ways women have intertwined with the happenings in our world — both big and […]]]>

In the United States, Canada, the U.K., and Australia, the month of March is dedicated to remembering the contributions of women throughout history. For children, this is an ideal time to put a purposeful focus on the study of all the ways women have intertwined with the happenings in our world — both big and small. If you’d like to highlight the importance of women in history this March, this post will be a great starting point.

We’ll be sharing information on how Women’s History commemorations got started in the U.S., a sampling of inspirational women in history, and finish off with ideas for activities that you can integrate into your women’s appreciation month study from preschool through high school. Are you ready to see what amazing things have been accomplished by womankind? Then, let’s begin!

The Origins of Women’s History Month

You might be wondering how the whole idea of a women’s history month got started. Well, it probably got its origins earlier than you might guess. In 1909, the first “National Woman’s Day” was held across the U.S. on February 28. The next year, over 100 women from seventeen countries around the world attended an international conference for women in Copenhagen. Four countries adopted an International Women’s Day in 1911, which over a million women attended. Throughout the rest of that decade, poor working conditions for women led to many rallies and protests in the U.S, and even contributed to the push for women’s suffrage, accomplished in 1920.

The central movement toward women’s rights history shifted mostly to socialist countries for the next fifty years until, in 1975, the United Nations began celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8. In the later 1970s, some schools adopted Women’s History Weeks, and a 15-day conference about women’s history was held at Sarah Lawrence College in 1979. The next year, President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week and a joint congressional resolution followed in 1981. Finally, in 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, congress passed a statute designating the entire month of March as national Women’s History Month!

Women's History Lessons

Famous Women in History

It’s almost impossible to choose which of the great women in history to focus on in a post like this one, but we’ve picked some names that children of all ages will probably recognize and for which you can easily find supplemental books and resources if you wanted to turn each one into an individual unit study.

Cleopatra – When it comes to strong women in history, ancient Egyptian queen Cleopatra is top of the list. It is believed that she spoke at least six languages. To keep power, she aligned herself with two of the most powerful men of her time, Julius Caesar and Marc Antony.

Queen Elizabeth I – Elizabeth, daughter of King Henry VIII, ruled England from 1558 until her death in 1603. During that time, she established the Protestant Church of England, ended a war with France, and defeated Spain in a great sea battle. Her reign was a time of expansive English exploration which led to the eventual British Empire of the 17th and 18th centuries. It’s very possible that we speak English in the United States as a direct result of her expeditions!

Harriet Tubman – The most famous leader of the Underground Railroad (a network of people dedicated to helping escaped slaves to freedom) was Harriet Tubman. During the American Civil war, she served as a nurse, a scout, and even a spy for the Union army.

Frida Kahlo – One of the most celebrated Mexican artists of all time is Frida Kahlo. She is best known for painting expressive, emotional art in strong colors that often included themes from Mexican history.

Malala Yousafzai – Although she is from the country of Pakistan, where teaching girls is banned in many areas, Malala Yousafzai has been an outspoken champion of girls’ education. She received many death threats in her youth and in 2012 was shot in the head by a member of an Islamic militant group. She survived the attack, however, and went on to receive the Nobel Peace Prize at the young age of seventeen.

More Interesting Women’s History Month Facts

The first woman to run for president of the United States was Victoria Woodhull in 1872.

Madam C.J. Walker was the first female self-made millionaire in America. She created a hair care line in 1905 then increased her wealth through real estate investments.

American first lady Eleanor Roosevelt sometimes held womens-only press conferences during a time when women were often excluded from press coverage.

During WWII, hundreds of women participated in the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) program which moved military aircraft around the country.

The first country in the world to allow women the right to vote was New Zealand in 1893.

In 1903, a woman named Mary Anderson received the patent for an item designed to keep snow and rain off of car windows. Today, every car has her invention included in it: windshield wipers!

Women’s History Month Activities by Grade Level

Students will gain the most from a study of women’s history by participating in a variety of cross-curricular exercises. Below, you’ll find educational ideas for preschool through high school that honor important women in history.

Women’s History Month Activities for Preschool

Preschoolers will cheer for their favorite new heroines when introduced to them in picture book form. Books such as Betsy Ross, Rosa’s Bus, Summer Birds and the Effa Manley Story are great places to start.

Teach your preschooler a song about one of the great women in history. Ideas could include Keep Your Face to the Sunshine (about Helen Keller) or “What Can One Little Person Do?”” (about Rosa Parks)

Did you hear about the limited edition release of Lego™ Women Scientist figures? Even if you can’t score a set of those, it might be fun for your student to choose a female scientist to research and then recreate her accomplishments in block form.

Women’s History Month Activities for Middle School

Let middle schoolers stretch their multimedia muscles by creating their own set of printable women’s history facts cards that include images of notable women along with a short paragraph of what they are known for.

Do you have a building, monument, statue, or museum in your local area that is named after or dedicated to a woman? Have your middle schooler research the contributions of that local figure and then be sure to take a field trip to visit the memorial.

Women’s History Month Activities for High School

Can your high schooler think of any current careers that are still primarily occupied by men in today’s world? Have them research and discover at least one woman in each of those fields and see if they can uncover what it’s like for them working in a male-dominated profession.

The Equal Pay Act was signed in 1963, when women earned just 59 cents to every dollar that men earned. Have your high schooler find out what the comparison is to male and female pay today and then calculate the percentage that figure has increased or decreased since 1963.

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]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/celebrating-great-women-in-history-in-march/feed/0Field Trips in Alabama for Homeschoolershttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/field-trips-in-alabama-for-homeschoolers/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/field-trips-in-alabama-for-homeschoolers/#respondThu, 01 Mar 2018 15:16:12 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13526Field trips are one of the best things about homeschooling. Instead of learning by studying something, you get the opportunity to learn by doing! They give parents and students a break from their traditional routine. If your homeschool ever starts feeling stale, educational field trips in Alabama just might light the spark that reminds you […]]]>

Field trips are one of the best things about homeschooling. Instead of learning by studying something, you get the opportunity to learn by doing! They give parents and students a break from their traditional routine. If your homeschool ever starts feeling stale, educational field trips in Alabama just might light the spark that reminds you why you started homeschooling in the first place.

Field trips can enhance almost anything you are studying. Whether you are covering how stalagmites are formed, studying Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birmingham campaign, or learning about railway history, Alabama has a destination that will bring your lessons to life. Browse the list below to find the Alabama day trips that are perfect for homeschool families, and print out this map of Alabama to have your students document what they learn. Plus, as a bonus, we’ve even included a free download of Time4Learning lesson plans that might be the perfect supplement for each trip (grab yours at the end of this article)!

Home education is not the same in every state. Make sure you’re getting the information you need to start homeschooling in the sweet home of Alabama.

Homeschool Field Trips in North Alabama

4D Farm, Cullman – In the fall, when your homeschool might have fallen into a slight “rut,” it’s time to pack up the family and head to the farm! There is even a special Homeschool Day in October and you can download curriculum materials from their website prior to your trip.

Imagination Place Children’s Museum, Gadsden – This museum, aimed at children ages 2-10, gives homeschoolers a hands-on exploration of the things happening in their community. They can pretend to be doctors, construction workers, train conductors, and more.

North Alabama Railroad Museum, Huntsville – On Wednesdays and Saturdays, April through October, you can ride a vintage train to experience railroad history. The original Chase Depot has been restored to its original condition, down to the waiting room, freight room, and agent’s office.

Cathedral Caverns, Woodville – In the dog days of summer, you can especially appreciate fun day trips in Alabama that take you to places where the temps are 60 degrees year round. That’s one of the delightful perks of this destination that will teach children about geology from the inside out.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, Decatur – Although it was established in the 1930’s primarily as a refuge for migratory waterfowl, homeschoolers will be excited to keep an eye out here for deer, red and grey foxes, armadillos, turtles, salamanders and multiple kinds of snakes.

Homeschool Field Trips in Central Alabama

American Village, Montevallo – This unique campus was designed with students in mind. Here you can discover the power and drama of the American Revolution. The educational programs are directly tied to learning objectives in history, citizenship, and government courses. Associated lesson plans are available on the website.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham – The BCRI is a celebration of the hard-fought battles that have occurred and are still occurring for civil rights in America. When touring the exhibits,you’ll be introduced to Civil Rights champions that you’ve probably never heard of before. This is definitely one of the most educational field trips in Alabama.

Desoto Caverns, Childersburg – Whether you are doing a geology study or learning about Native American history, this family-owned park is the ideal place to enhance your lessons. Generations of prehistoric native peoples resided in the caverns and it boasts one of the largest accumulations of onyx-marble stalagmites and stalactites in the world.

Iron and Steel Museum of Alabama, McCalla – Visit the southeast’s only interpretive center dedicated to 19th century iron making. Learn about how iron works were made during the Civil War. Things you’ll see there include one of the oldest steam engines in America and a complete mid-1800s machine shop.

Moundville Archaeological Park, Moundville – Explore one of the largest Native American settlements in the United States. There are several mounds to view, some of which you can climb all the way to the top. Many of the artifacts that have been uncovered on the site are preserved in the museum for viewing.

Homeschool Field Trips in South Alabama

Alabama Agricultural Museum, Dothan – You’ll be astonished at the number of displays packed into one site, including a living history farm from the 1800s, a one-room schoolhouse, a general store, turn-of-the-century church, wildlife exhibits, a planetarium and much more.

Mobile Museum of Art, Mobile – Imagine exploring a collection of over 10,000 artworks in a variety of mediums such as sculpture, painting, crafts, and paper art. There are art classes just for homeschool students, too, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, every other week. If you have a budding artist at your house, this is one of the most hands-on things to do with children in Alabama.

Montgomery Zoo, Montgomery – The zoo is laid out by continents so that you can view the animals in realistic settings. Annual memberships are available for families, which is the best way to experience the zoo again and again. If you are looking for field trip ideas for the animal lover in your family, don’t miss this destination.

Turtle Point Science Center, Flomaton – This hands-on science center is designed both for school groups and the general public. It is home to a variety of reptiles, fish, birds, amphibians, and mammals. Aside from animal encounters, you will also enjoy gardens, a butterfly house, a fish pond, and a boardwalk.

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, Tuskegee – As if the “Redtail” hanging from the ceiling weren’t impressive enough, your homeschoolers will be entranced by the bravery and determination of the African American airmen honored here at these two converted hangars.

Alabama Field Trips Resource

Is there anything more fun than learning through field trips? To make your experiences at these destinations even more meaningful, Time4Learning members will appreciate this download of free lesson tie-ins.

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/field-trips-in-alabama-for-homeschoolers/feed/0Georgia Field Trips for Homeschoolershttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/georgia-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/georgia-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/#respondWed, 28 Feb 2018 18:53:50 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13417Homeschool families, is Georgia on your mind? If you live in the Peach state (or plan to visit soon), it should be because there are so many things to do with children in Georgia from the Blue Ridge mountains to the coastal plain. In addition to being a natural playground, the state is packed with […]]]>

Homeschool families, is Georgia on your mind? If you live in the Peach state (or plan to visit soon), it should be because there are so many things to do with children in Georgia from the Blue Ridge mountains to the coastal plain. In addition to being a natural playground, the state is packed with historical sites, museums, animal encounters, and cultural experiences that are bound to enhance your homeschool experience.

I’m sure you’ve already realized that field trips are one of the key perks of home education. Being able to take your learning on the road prevents your homeschooling experience from getting stale or tiresome. Also, you can find ways to supplement almost any subject you are studying with hands-on adventures that will ensure that your child(ren) retain the information even longer.

Browse the list below to find educational field trips in Georgia that are perfect for homeschool families. Print this map of Georgia and have your child markup the places you’ll be visiting, or document what he/she learned on the trip. To help support you even further, we’ve included a free download of Time4Learning lesson plans that might be the perfect supplement for each trip!

Home education is not the same in every state. Make sure you’re getting the information you need to start homeschooling in Georgia.

Homeschool Field Trips in North Georgia

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Blue Ridge – For the homeschooler who has seen every episode of Thomas the Tank Engine or can rattle off engine types faster than a locomotive, a ticket on this four-hour round trip ride around the Toccoa River in a vintage rail car will create memories that last a lifetime.

Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo, Dahlonega – Can your homeschooler list of every species of wild cat? Does he/she dream in zebra black and white? Then your animal lover will be giddy at the idea of visiting native and exotic wildlife from all over the world. Don’t forget to ask about volunteer opportunities if you live close by, too.

Consolidated Gold Mining Company, Dahlonega – Think you can’t go field tripping on a rainy day? Think again, thanks to this indoor gemstone mine that is open seven days a week. Head 200 feet underground and over 100 years back in time to experience life as a turn of the century gold miner.

InterActive Neighborhood for Kids, Gainesville – Imagine, create, and explore at this museum aimed at children ages 2 to 12. The hands-on, interactive exhibits are structured in a way that lets each visitor touch and feel the “real world”.

State Botanical Gardens of Georgia, Athens – Both indoor and outdoor learning experiences await your family at this 313-acre preserve set aside by the University of Georgia. There are more than five miles of nature trails to explore as well as a tropical conservatory.

Homeschool Field Trips in Central Georgia

The Breman Museum, Atlanta – Are you studying Middle Eastern countries or the Holocaust? Or perhaps your homeschoolers would like to peek into the rich history of another culture? Either way, this museum will introduce you to pivotal moments in the history of the Jewish people.

Hickory Hill, Thomson – Homeschool groups receive free admission to this site, but if you can’t get a full group together, don’t hesitate to visit the historic home and gardens as a family outing because admission fees are still incredibly affordable. Be on the lookout for info about the next Homeschool Day, as well.

Museum of Arts and Sciences, Macon – It’s no secret that art and science are even more fun when they include hands-on learning opportunities. That’s the goal of this educational venue that offers permanent and visiting exhibits as well as programs for school groups, homeschoolers, college students, adults, and families.

The Old Governor’s Mansion, Milledgeville – This could be one of the best one day trips in Georgia for homeschoolers doing a state unit study. There is a teacher’s pre-study guide on the website to help prepare your students for the visit, as well.

The Rock Ranch, Barnesville – Sometimes you need fun day trips in Georgia that are going to appeal to every member of the family. With attractions like zip lines, a tiny town for children, a petting zoo, and a locomotive to ride, this might be exactly the place to please everyone at once.

Homeschool Field Trips in South Georgia

Georgia Southern Museum, Statesboro – Your resident paleontologist will feel immediately at home at this collection on the campus of Georgia Southern University. Look back on millions of years of natural and cultural history in the Coastal Plains area of the state.

Global Village and Discovery Center, Americus – This 6-acre village created by Habitat for Humanity International can give your homeschooler a peek into what life is like in other countries by viewing life-size homes from various parts of the world.

Museum of Aviation, Warner Robbins – If you need a field trip that will fit any budget, then you’ll definitely want to plan a visit to this museum with both free admission and free parking. This is the second largest museum in the U.S. Air Force where students can view historic U.S. Air Force aircraft, missiles, cockpits and award-winning exhibits.

Providence Canyon Outdoor Recreation Area, Lumpkin – Who says all field trips have to occur in the daytime? The regular astronomy events at this state park will allow homeschooling stargazers to learn about the night sky and view stars and planets via telescopes. (Oh, and there is plenty to do in the daytime here, too!)

St. Simon’s Lighthouse Museum, St. Simon’s Island – There are so many lesson tie-ins with lighthouses, aren’t there? Seafaring history, navigation, coastal tides, architecture, and, of course – – what it would be like to work as a lighthouse keeper! But, even if you aren’t studying any of those, a field trip to this site will still be a homeschool outing to remember!

Georgia Field Trips Resource

Is there anything more fun than learning through field trips? To make your experiences at these destinations even more meaningful, Time4Learning members will appreciate this download of free lesson tie-ins.

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/georgia-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/feed/0Field Trips in Illinois for Homeschoolershttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/field-trips-in-illinois-for-homeschoolers/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/field-trips-in-illinois-for-homeschoolers/#respondTue, 27 Feb 2018 16:14:40 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13302Do you remember the excitement of a field trip day from your own school days? It meant the chance to do something out of the ordinary, see something new, and possibly have a big adventure. When you’re homeschooling, those kinds of days are more the norm than the exception! Field trip days are likely a […]]]>

Do you remember the excitement of a field trip day from your own school days? It meant the chance to do something out of the ordinary, see something new, and possibly have a big adventure. When you’re homeschooling, those kinds of days are more the norm than the exception! Field trip days are likely a frequent affair at your house, and when you live in Illinois, there is certainly no shortage of places to explore and learn together.

The other great thing about field trips is that they are a way to enhance almost anything you are studying. Whether you are covering the boyhood of Abraham Lincoln, learning about constellations, or studying bird habitats, Illinois has a destination to enhance your lessons! To help you locate homeschool field trips in Illinois, we’ve organized them by geographical area. Browse the list below to find the Illinois day trips that are perfect for homeschool families, and print out this map of Illinois to have your students document what they learn. Plus, as a bonus, we’ve even included a free download of Time4Learning lesson plans that might be the perfect supplement for each trip (grab yours at the end of this article)!

Home education is not the same in every state. Make sure you’re getting the information you need to start homeschooling in The Prairie State.

Homeschool Field Trips in North Illinois

The Grove, Glenview – What do you get when you cross a historic site with a nature museum? You get one of IL’s most unique and fun educational field trips! With multiple learning opportunities plus dedicated homeschool weeks, you’ll wish you’d found out about this site much sooner.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, Elmhurst – Any geology study would be upgraded by a trip to this unique destination. The museum offers a scavenger hunt which will definitely get homeschoolers quickly familiar with the exhibits. Rock and mineral identification classes are available to students in grades 3 and up, as well.

Niabi Zoo, Coal Valley – Conservation and education are at the heart of everything that happens at Niabi Zoo. Classes for all ages are available on a regular basis that not only teach about the animals and their habitats but let children get up close and personal with them, as well.

Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve, Joliet – Most Fridays and Sundays, you’ll find nature related activities going on at the nature center here – – everything from bird identification to animal tracking. But beyond the center are 985 acres of preserved woodland with miles of trails and even a historic farm to explore.

Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens, Rockford – With over 10,000 items in the collection, this museum is a historical treasure. The museum complex contains the historic house museum, barn, and carriage house from the Tinker family. Visiting is like opening a time capsule from the Victorian Era.

Homeschool Field Trips in Central Illinois

The Great Pumpkin Patch, Arthur – Children can’t help but love agritourism destinations…we all have a “little farmer” inside us that is brimming with curiosity about how things grow. When you are looking for unique field trips ideas, the gardens, mazes, farm animals, and one-room schoolhouse here at the patch will fit the bill.

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Urbana – If you have the opportunity to attend one of the Youth Series performances at Krannert, you homeschooler will be enriched. The center creates study guides to accompany the series, too. Don’t miss the free behind-the-scenes tours of the facility that happen most afternoons during the school year.

Lincoln’s New Salem, Petersberg – Imagine if you could step right back into the time of Abraham Lincoln. You can do just that at this reconstruction of the village where young Abe spent his early adulthood. With over 20 buildings to explore, your homeschool history buffs will be thoroughly transfixed.

Peoria RiverFront Museum, Peoria – With hands-on learning through objects, a Giant Screen Theater, Dome Planetarium, and rotating exhibits, this museum is one of the most fun things to do with children in Illinois. There are even dedicated classes just for homeschoolers!

Scovill Park, Decatur – 62-acre Scovill Park is home to 400 animals spanning six different continents. Families will find exotic and domestic animals, horticultural displays and gardens, a large playground, and plenty of places to picnic. Animal education doesn’t get more captivating than this.

Homeschool Field Trips in South Illinois

Ballard Nature Center, Altamont – When nature, exploration, and education come together, it’s a recipe for one of the most fun day trips in Illinois! Throughout the year, the center offers programs such as the Hoot & Howl Hike, Family Science Day, and Firefly Fun.

Cahokia Courthouse State Historic Site, Cahokia – Initially built as a dwelling in the 1730s, this building became the center of political activity in the northwest in the early 1800s. Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery actually used the site as their headquarters from 1803-1804.

Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis – Visit Illinois’ first ever established state park! Take an excursion through American history where you can see the archeological outline of the original fort and a replica of an 1802 American Fort that once stood on the site. There is an annual encampment reenactment in October, as well.

The Science Center, Carbondale – Everyone knows that science is best learned the hands-on way, and this museum offers one of the most interactive places to visit with children in Illinois. The Science Center hosts educational programs for homeschool families on the second Wednesday of each month.

Trail of Tears State Forest, Jonesboro – What if you could explore an area of your state that you knew was used extensively by Native Americans? This part of the Illinois Nature Preserve System, encompassing over 5,000 acres, is named in memorial to the tragic event that pushed American natives from their homes.

Illinois Field Trip Resource

Is there anything more fun than learning through field trips? To make your experiences at these destinations even more meaningful, Time4Learning members will appreciate this download of free lesson tie-ins.

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/field-trips-in-illinois-for-homeschoolers/feed/0Texas Field Trips for Homeschoolershttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/texas-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/texas-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/#respondMon, 26 Feb 2018 16:44:10 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13110Your backpacks are stuffed with snacks, car games, and an extra change of clothes. You have your route mapped out on your GPS. You’ve even checked ahead on picnic areas and restroom facilities. It must be FIELD TRIP day in your homeschool!! Whether you are visiting the state of Texas as a homeschooling tourist or […]]]>

Your backpacks are stuffed with snacks, car games, and an extra change of clothes. You have your route mapped out on your GPS. You’ve even checked ahead on picnic areas and restroom facilities. It must be FIELD TRIP day in your homeschool!! Whether you are visiting the state of Texas as a homeschooling tourist or are a family who is searching for educational things to do in Texas with children, this great big state has plenty to offer.

In Texas, day trips are one of the best ways to spice up a slow homeschool month. Plus, learning through field trips is the kind of learning that will often stick with your student far longer than something they read in a textbook or even watch on a video. To help you locate places to visit in Texas with children, we’ve organized them by geographical area. Browse the list below to find the educational field trips in Texas that are perfect for homeschool families. Plan out each of your learning adventures on this printable Texas map from Time4Learning. Plus, as a bonus, we’ve even included a free download of Time4Learning lesson plans (at the end of this article) that might be the perfect supplement for each trip!

Home education is not the same in every state. Make sure you’re getting the information you need to start homeschooling in The Lonestar State.

Homeschool Field Trips in North Texas

Amarillo Museum of Art, Amarillo – As if going to see a museum showcasing paintings, photography, textiles, and sculpture weren’t enough, this one even has a Museum School in the spring and fall for students ages 4 to 11! Be sure to contact the museum to request a copy of their yearly educational guide, too.

Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, Cedar Hill – When the weather beckons you to go on a hummingbird hunt or take in a picnic, you’ll want to head straight to this natural playground. With over two miles of hiking trails, this is the place to go when you need to stretch your legs.

Heritage Farmstead Museum, Plano – Step back into 19th and early 20th century Blackland Prairie history at this interactive educational site where students can learn from docents in period dress, explore a one-room schoolhouse, and see a working blacksmith’s shop. There are plenty of teacher resources to download before or after your visit, as well.

Panhandle Plains Historical Museum, Canyon – You can get acquainted with 500 million years of history in Texas’ largest historical museum. From dinosaurs to modern art, from saddles to automobiles, there is always something to see and do!

Homeschool Field Trips in East Texas

Frontiers of Flight Museum, Dallas – From the Wright flyer to the Apollo VII spacecraft, this museum has plenty of stories to tell of the amazing gravity-defying feats throughout aviation history. Homeschoolers can view over 30 air and space crafts while building S.T.E.A.M. skills through educational programs at the site.

Southwest Dairy Museum and Education Center, Sulphur Springs – The dairy industry has a long history in the southwest, and you can find out all about it at this unique field trip locale. Homeschoolers will be especially interested to see how dairy farmers got things done before the advent of electricity.

Texas Energy Museum, Beaumont – Explore the fascinating world of petroleum science & technology from the geological formation of oil to modern refining chemistry. This small museum offers plenty of hands-on displays that will intrigue active learners.

Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, Athens – Visitors to the center will learn about both sport fishing in Texas as well as aquatic conservation efforts in the state. There are multiple educational opportunities to investigate aquatic invertebrates, water quality, and fish identification. Daily dive shows will fascinate homeschoolers of all ages.

Homeschool Field Trips in Central Texas

Abilene Zoological Gardens, Abilene – Your animal lovers will be entranced by the Abilene Zoo, with more than 500 animals representing over 200 species to see and learn about. Homeschool teens who live locally may want to find out more about their Zoo Teens program.

Inner Space Cavern, Georgetown – Take a ride underground with an informative guide to see and learn about one of the best preserved underground caves in Texas. Students can earn a Junior Cave Scientist badge at the site, as well.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, San Antonio – If an African safari is something your children have dreamed of, they will thoroughly enjoy this chance to view, photograph & feed species from all over the world right from their own vehicle.

Thinkery, Austin – This S.T.E.A.M.-focused destination will build curiosity and imagination in your future scientists. Each gallery supports hands-on, play-based learning, with activities and content appropriate for visitors with children of all ages.

Homeschool Field Trips in South Texas

Imaginarium of South Texas, Laredo – With special educational programs such as Dynamic Dinos and Nature Explorers, children will love getting hands-on with their education at this interactive museum. Families will find hundreds of ways to imagine, design, invent, and create together here.

Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center, McAllen – The Rio Grande Valley has long been recognized as a world-class birding destination. Quinta Mazatlan attracts many of the favorite “Valley specialties” found no place else in the country.

Sea Turtle, Inc., South Padre Island – The mission of this organization is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured sea turtles, educate the public, and assist with conservation efforts for all marine turtle species. Educational presentations are offered throughout the day.

Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures, Corpus Christi – Are you studying Japan, China, India, Thailand, or another Asian countries in your homeschool right now? Then, definitely add this destination to your schedule where you can explore the beauty, wonder, and diversity of Asian culture.

Homeschool Field Trips in West Texas

American Wind Power Museum, Lubbock – Over 70 historic windmills are available to view at this unique location. The Wind Energy Experience Center showcases the Wingen turbine, and there is a large millstone collection to explore as well.

El Paso Museum of Archaeology, El Paso – Homeschoolers can get up close and personal with 14,000 years of prehistory in the El Paso area, the greater Southwest, and northern Mexico. There are also 15 acres of outdoor exhibits and an Indian Garden to explore.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Salt Flat – Guadalupe Mountains sit on top of Carlsbad Caverns, so plan to visit both on your trip. There are miles and miles of hiking trails here, so keep an eye out for mule deer who live throughout the park.

Museum of the Southwest, Midland – This field trip features an Art Museum, Children’s Museum, and a Planetarium all in one. Don’t miss the 15 sculptures on the grounds of the museum, either. Family Fridays programs offer sessions for children ages 4 to 12.

Texas Field Trip Resource

Is there anything more fun than learning through field trips? To make your experiences at these destinations even more meaningful, Time4Learning members will appreciate this download of free lesson tie-ins.

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/new-homeschooler/texas-field-trips-for-homeschoolers/feed/05 Tips to Get the Most Out of Homeschool Conventionshttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/5-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-homeschool-conventions/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/5-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-homeschool-conventions/#respondMon, 26 Feb 2018 15:35:14 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=13090Homeschool conventions are a must for any homeschooling family. Between the vendor hall, workshops, and guest speakers, there is a ton to learn and gain from these events. Held annually by different organizers throughout the country, homeschool conventions draw thousands of families, each with their own personal homeschooling stories and different backgrounds, but all with […]]]>

Homeschool conventions are a must for any homeschooling family. Between the vendor hall, workshops, and guest speakers, there is a ton to learn and gain from these events. Held annually by different organizers throughout the country, homeschool conventions draw thousands of families, each with their own personal homeschooling stories and different backgrounds, but all with one thing in common: they want to provide the best at home education for their children.

And homeschool conventions are not just for browsing. They are also great places to shop for curriculum or anything else you may need for your homeschool, as well as plan for the upcoming school year.

But with dozens, sometimes even hundreds of exhibitors and vendors at some of the bigger homeschool conventions, it can be quite easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you’re attending for the first time or are a veteran attendee, here’s are our top 5 tips to help you make the most of these can’t miss events.

Tip #1: Plan ahead

The convention organizer’s website is a great place to start. You’ll find the exhibitor list, featured speakers, and the schedules for the exhibit hall, workshops, and other events taking place.

This information will help you plan your day and allow you to make the most of your time at the convention. Don’t forget to give yourself a few hours of ‘free time’ in case anything interesting pops up that you want to see or do. Here, you can also register for the convention and take advantage of discounted hotel rates. Which takes us into tip #2.

Bonus tip: Many conventions seek out volunteers to help out in exchange for free tickets, so if you’ll be available for a few hours, it’s worth looking into.

Tip #2: Make travel arrangements early

If you’re traveling and will require overnight accommodations, book your hotel early. Many convention organizers offer early bird discounts for nearby hotels, and if you’re planning on staying at one of the nicer hotels, these savings can save you quite a bit of money. But book early! Rooms can sell out months before the convention begins.

Tip# 3: Don’t leave the kids behind

Many conventions feature daytime events for children, so you can enjoy the event and really take your time with those must-see vendors. For older students, there’s also the opportunity to volunteer, sit it on special tracks and workshops, and even meet with many colleges and universities that attend. Depending on the venue, a lot of convention organizers will also host evening activities for families like game night, concerts, and more.

Tip #4: Prep the night before

If traveling with children, make sure to bring along things like juice boxes, water, granola bars, and fruit. Sure, you’ll probably find eateries within the convention center, but save yourself the money and, if it’s allowed, bring your own snacks. It’s amazing how an empty stomach can affect everyone’s energy level and mood, so be prepared. Don’t forget to dress comfortably and wear a good pair of walking shoes. It also helps to bring a rolling cart, backpack or tote.

Tip #5: Get to know the area

Since you’re visiting a new city, explore your surroundings and visit popular attractions like museums, zoos, and other destinations. If you’re traveling with the kids, these stops can also double as educational field trips.

Check out more convention info, including which ones Time4Learning will be at this year in our Convention Itinerary post.

Sign up for our newsletter to get regular insights and practical advice about homeschooling, skill-building, and after-school enrichment.

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/5-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-homeschool-conventions/feed/0Homeschool Unit Study: Andrew Jacksonhttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-andrew-jackson/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-andrew-jackson/#respondMon, 26 Feb 2018 13:30:20 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=12886Andrew Jackson is often called “the first populist president,” because his was the first political campaign to appeal directly to the American public. Jackson was a farmer, a pioneer, a lawyer, a judge, a military hero, a politician and a president of the United States. To help, we’ve created an American Presidents unit study that […]]]>

Andrew Jackson is often called “the first populist president,” because his was the first political campaign to appeal directly to the American public. Jackson was a farmer, a pioneer, a lawyer, a judge, a military hero, a politician and a president of the United States. To help, we’ve created an American Presidents unit study that will answer questions like:

What number president was Andrew Jackson?

Where was Andrew Jackson born?

What were Andrew Jackson’s accomplishments?

Are you ready to find out these and more interesting details about President Jackson? Then let’s get started learning!

Andrew Jackson Fast Facts

Presidential Order

7th President

Political Party

Democratic-Republican

Born

March 15, 1767

Death

June 8, 1845

State of Birth

South Carolina

Name of Spouse

Rachel Donelson

Served as President

1829-1837

Age When Elected to Office

61 years old

Vice Presidents

Had 2 Vice Presidents:

John C. Calhoun (1829-1832)

Martin Van Buren (1833-1837)

Any man worth his salt will stick up for what he believes right, but it takes a slightly better man to acknowledge instantly and without reservation that he is in error.

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson Timeline

1767

Born to Irish immigrant Elizabeth Jackson (father, Andrew, died just 3 weeks before his son’s birth).

1781

While serving during the Revolutionary War, Jackson was captured by the British but released later that year.

1779-1781

Lost both brothers and his mother as a direct result of the Revolutionary War, leaving him an orphan at age 14.

1784-1787

Studied law in North Carolina and was admitted to the bar.

1791

Became attorney general of the Tennessee territory.

1794

Married Rachel Donelson in Nashville (before it was the state of TN)

1796

Was elected the first ever U.S Representative of Tennessee when it gained statehood

1798

Became a judge of the Tennessee Supreme Court

1804

Acquired The Hermitage, a slave plantation in Tennessee primarily focused on growing cotton

1813-1818

Fought in The Battle of 1812 and the First Seminole War

1828

Elected President, and wife, Rachel, died 3 weeks later

1830

Signed the Indian Removal Act, designed to remove Native American tribes to lands west of the Mississippi River. The forced relocation came to be knon

as the Trail of Tears.

1832

Reelected to a second term as U.S. president; his VP John C Calhoun resigns

1835

Survived a failed assassination attempt (the first ever assassination attempt on a U.S. president)

1836-1837

1845

Interesting Facts About Andrew Jackson

He was reportedly involved in over 100 duels, including the most famous Jackson-Dickinson duel which resulted in Charles Dickinson’s death.

During the War of 1812, as General of the Tennessee militia, he defeated the British at the Battle of New Orleans although his troops were outnumbered by more than 2,500 men.

Also during the War of 1812, he adopted two Native American infants.

Along with Martin Van Buren, Jackson was one of the founders of the Democratic Party in 1828.

Since his wife had died shortly after taking office, his niece served as “First Lady” during his first presidential term of office.

Mistakenly thinking that her first husband had completed their divorce, Jackson married his wife Rachel while she was still officially married to another man. They remarried again, officially this time, a few years later.

He gained the nickname “Old Hickory” for his extreme toughness during his service in the War of 1812.

Both North and South Carolina claim to be the birthplace of the president because he was born in a border area – called the Waxhaws – that was still under dispute at the time of his birth.

Jackson was the first president to invite the public to attend the inauguration ball at the White House. The event earned Jackson the nickname “King Mob.”

Andrew Jackson nominated Roger Taney to the Supreme Court. Taney was the man responsible for the infamous Dred Scott decision, that declared African-Americans weren’t U.S. citizens. In an interesting turn of events, Taney would go on to swear in Abraham Lincoln (the man who abolished slavery) as president.

Hands-On Activities For Andrew Jackson

Learning facts about a historical figure such as President Jackson is interesting, but what truly makes the information stick with your child is to actively engage with it. Below, you will find ideas, organized by grade level, for incorporating hands-on learning into your Andrew Jackson history study.

Elementary Andrew Jackson Activities

The idea that men like Andrew Jackson regularly participated in duels will fascinate most elementary age students. Have a discussion with them about why dueling was more common the in the early days of American history. What has changed in society that would make dueling less appealing or necessary today? What part did politics and law play in dueling regulations?

Using the President’s last name, have your student write an acrostic poem that ties together some of the most important things he or she has learned about him.

Middle School Andrew Jackson Activities

Because there are so many controversial aspects of Jackson’s life and career, students have multiple options for writing an opinion essay about him. His approach to Native Americans, his penchant for duels, and his political accomplishments would all be topics that students might enjoy “taking a side” on.

Andrew Jackson was not only fighting in the Revolutionary War at age 13, but also became an orphan at age 14. Discuss with your middle schooler how that might have affected both his outlook on life and the paths he chose

High School Andrew Jackson Activities

President Jackson had many personal and political enemies. Have your student participate in a “mock” debate he or she is portraying Andrew Jackson and you are portraying one of his specific enemies. Ahead of time, you’ll want to research the key conflicts each man had with the other to make the debate more exciting.

Have your student research who their own state representatives were (House of Representatives and Senate) during the time of the vote on the Indian Removal Act in 1830. How did those representatives vote – were they for or against it?

Quick Andrew Jackson Spelling Words

dueling

enemies

captured

orphan

lawyer

slavery

militia

resilience

reputation

displaced

Additional Learning Links for Andrew Jackson

]]>https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-andrew-jackson/feed/0Homeschool Unit Study: Florida State Factshttps://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-florida-state-facts/
https://www.time4learning.com/blog/tips-worksheets/homeschool-unit-study-florida-state-facts/#respondFri, 23 Feb 2018 15:00:43 +0000https://www.time4learning.com/?p=12569The very first region of the continental United States to be explored and settled by Europeans was the area now called “Florida.” Interestingly, though, it was over 300 years before it became the 27th state to join the Union. And that is just one fascinating fact that your homeschooler can learn about this southern state. […]]]>

Historical Facts About Florida

There were three main native tribes in the Florida territory in its earliest known settled history: the Timucua, the Calusa, and the Apalachee. The first documented Europeans to discover the area were led by explorer Ponce De Leon of Spain. He landed there around 1513 close to what is now St. Augustine. Other Spanish and French explorations occurred throughout the 1500s, and eventually most of the area was claimed for Spain. It was also during this period that the native peoples of the area began to be decimated by diseases that the Europeans carried with them when they arrived.

Following the French and Indian War, the territory of Florida transferred from Spanish to British control. Native tribes from other areas began migrating to Florida territory. They became known as “Seminoles” from the Native American word meaning “outsiders.” When the American Revolution began, Florida actually stayed loyal to Britain and even became a place known to harbor Tories (British Loyalists). At the end of the Revolution, the territory was returned to Spain in the Treaty of Paris.

Spanish Florida began having extreme conflict with neighboring Georgia over Seminole-related issues, that even led to the First Seminole War around 1816-1819. Spain was unable to defend its territory against military invasion by the Americans, so they ceded control of the area to the states in 1821. Many Seminoles remained in Florida, though, until the Treaty of Payne’s Landing, in 1830, promised them the lands west of the Mississippi River if they would leave. Fifteen years later Florida finally was admitted into the Union as the 27th state.

Here are some more historical facts about Florida that your homeschooler may find interesting…

Amelia Island in Florida has actually served under eight different flags: Spanish, French, British, Patriot, Green Cross, Mexican, Confederate, and the United States.

Ponce de Leon gets credit for naming the state when he called it “La Florida,” Spanish for “land of flowers.”

In the 1860 presidential election, not a single Floridian voted for Abraham Lincoln.

Commercial aviation initiated in Florida when Tony Jannus flew the first passenger service airline from St. Petersburg to Tampa in 1914.

On June 6, 1959, three thousand pieces of “missile mail” were delivered to Mayland, FL via a cruise missile from a Navy submarine.

When Fidel Castro took over Cuba in 1959, it kicked off a long-term mass exodus of Cubans migrating to Florida.

Walt Disney World opened in Orlando, FL in 1971 at a cost estimated between 500-600 million dollars.

The first manned space shuttles launched from Kennedy Space Center in FL in 1981.

In 1982, the Florida Keys “seceded” from the United States due to a Border Patrol issue. For about two minutes, prior to surrender, the Key West mayor declared it as the “Conch Republic.”

Geographical Facts About Florida

Florida, the southernmost state in the southeastern U.S., is bordered by both the Gulf of Mexico on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. This is just one of the interesting facts about the Sunshine State’s geography that your homeschooler will find interesting. To enhance your unit study, explore a map of the state and then download our printable Florida map (below) and mark it up with your child. Here’s a small survey of some of the things you and your homeschooler may want note about Florida’s geography and its unique features.

Florida is the flattest state in the United States with its highest point, Lakewood Park in the southeast, being only 345 feet above sea level.

Kennedy Space Center, on the eastern coast of the state, has been NASA’s primary launch center for space flight.

Speaking of Kennedy Space Center, Brevard County, where it is located, has the area code “321” in honor of the countdown sequence that spacecraft experience before liftoff.

In the northeastern part of the state, the city of Jacksonville is the largest city, by area, in the United States.

Fort Lauderdale, in southeast Florida, is known as the “Venice of America” due to having over 180 miles of inland waterways.

No location in the state of Florida is further than 60 miles from a beach.

More than half of the United States supply of cane sugar is produced in Florida.

Florida State Map

Activities for Children in Florida

If you homeschool in the state of Florida, you may or may not be aware of all the great day trips that will offer your families opportunities for both recreation and learning. If you are visiting the state, this list will be especially helpful as well. Enhance your Florida facts unit study with these field trip ideas.

Amelia Island Museum of History (Fernandina Beach) — with a human history dating back to at least the year 1000, Amelia Island is full of stories to tell. The museum houses exhibits that highlight the diverse cultures that have inhabited the area through the years.

Florida International Museum (St. Petersburg) — a Smithsonian-affiliated museum focused on educational, cultural, and historical exhibits. Homeschool groups get the same discounted admission fees as school groups: $5 per student.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (Homosassa) — a place where you can view manatees any day of the year from the park’s underwater observatory. The children’s education center offers hands-on nature experiences, and you can take pontoon boat or tram tours through the park as well.

Kennedy Space Center (Orsino) — whether you are visiting for a special space event, or just to find out what the space center is all about, your homeschooler will never forget this field trip experience. Allow at least a full day for the trip since the center includes a bus tour, a shuttle launch experience, a Journey to Mars experience, and more.

Pensacola Museum of Art (Pensacola) — located on the campus of the University of West Florida, this museum is focused on modern and contemporary art from the 19th through the 21st centuries. In addition to the permanent exhibits, students will enjoy the ever-changing visiting exhibits as well as ongoing art classes and summer art camps.

Legoland Florida Resort (Winter Haven) — on specific Homeschool Days at the resort, groups of 15 or more can receive deeply discounted tickets with a free chaperone ticket for every five student tickets.

Museum of Science and Industry (Tampa) — bring proof of homeschooler status to MOSI to get 50% off a yearly pass for a family of 5. Your pass includes reciprocal admission into 250 science centers around the country, as well.

Ringling Museum of Art (Sarasota) — on Mondays, the official state art museum for FL, hosting over 10,000 pieces in its collection, offers FREE admission to everyone.

Florida Learning Games for Children

Make sure to check out these available resources to assess your child’s knowledge about Florida and learn even more about the Sunshine State.